We reached Palermo on the north coast of Sicily some three months after we departed Ravensmuir. I was round with child, ripe with my lord’s seed, and losing confidence in my footing. Thus, I was anxious to feel the earth beneath my soles again, though Gawain rowed off alone, with nary an explanation. He bade us only to remain aboard and wait.
I followed his bidding, if impatiently.
Three days later, Gawain returned to the ship with a dozen men who set to moving ashore every trinket I had bought or brought. He said nothing in explanation, so I knew there was some matter of import bearing upon his thoughts. Indeed, I sensed a test afore me though I did not know its form. He took my hand and led me through the crooked streets of Palermo, behind the agile porters. He offered to fetch me a do
